HANNIBAL, MO – Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) has named two important leaders who will help define the future of the university: Mike Dixon, who will serve as campus chaplain and dean of students, and Brice Baumgardner, who will serve as vice-president of enrollment management.
With over 20 years of service to the university, Brice Baumgardner is a seasoned member of the HLGU community who has proven to be a dependable leader who is passionate about Christ-centered education and deeply committed to student achievement. Baumgardner started his career at HLGU in the admissions office. He then worked for more than ten years as the director of financial assistance until most recently becoming assistant vice-president of enrollment management.
Baumgardner has contributed significantly to enrollment strategy, student engagement, and institutional growth throughout his time there. A recipient of numerous industry honors for leadership and service, he has also held leadership positions at the state and regional levels, including president of the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel.
According to a news release from the university’s president, Dr. Robert Matz, Brice has been a devoted member of the HLGU family for more than 20 years, serving in a range of capacities with insight, commitment, and a heart for students. We shall benefit much from his extensive institutional experience and enthusiasm for Christian higher education as we move forward.
Mike Dixon, the campus chaplain and dean of students, is joining the university’s executive team. Dixon has more than ten years of experience in Christian higher education leadership, pastoral ministry, and student life. His most recent position was director of housing and intramural sports at Williams Baptist University, where he oversaw major student events, retention campaigns, and resident life projects.
Dixon is presently working on an MBA at Arkansas State University and has a master’s degree in divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has a passion for campus ministry, evangelism, and discipleship as an ordained Southern Baptist pastor, all of which complement HLGU’s goal of preparing students for lives of Christian service.
Mike’s unique background in spiritual leadership and student development will be crucial in creating a lively and encouraging campus culture, said Dr. Robert Matz, president of the university. We can’t wait to have him join the Trojan family.
Hannibal-LaGrange University’s dedication to creating a nurturing, Christ-centered environment where students flourish intellectually and spiritually is furthered by these appointments.
